WINCHESTER 1873 SECOND MODEL LEVER ACTION RIFLE.

Cal. 44 WCF (44-40). S# 75661. Bbl. 24" oct. w/ original open sporting sights. Full length mag. Blue finished action w/ case colored hammer & lever having a brass lifter. Walnut forearm & straight grip stock w/ crescent steel trapdoor buttplate. Mfg. 1881. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: 4 piece cleaning rod held in buttstock compartment. Framed hand written letter identifying Joe Austin as original owner of the rifle. Letter gives history of Mr Austin including the following information: "Started for Neb. in 1862", "became an Indian Scout for Kit Karson 1874". Letter further states he returned later to Ohio & died 1896. CONDITION: retains 70% lightly faded & dulling blue showing spots of surface corrosion. Case colored lever & hammer have faded to dark patina showing traces of original finish. Bottom of brass follower shows a pleasing patina. Original stock finish shows wear & age darkening w/ numerous dents, scratches & sm. gouges. Buttplate finish has faded to a mottled gray/brown. Bore retains lightly worn rifling w/ scattered pitting. (01-17089/DS). ANTIQUE. $1,500-2,500.